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Checkpoint Systems Grows RFID Library Market Share; 10 New Customers Opt for Company's RFID Library Solution THOROFARE, N.J. --(Business Wire)-- Aug. 19, 2004 -- Checkpoint Systems, Inc. (NYSE: CKP), the leading provider of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to libraries, has continued to expand its commanding share of the RFID-driven library marketplace with contracts to install its Intelligent Library System(R) (ILS) in 10 academic and public libraries in nine states. More than 30 years of technology development has earned Checkpoint the leading position as a provider of RFID-based solutions to libraries.Checkpoint's new library partners include the prestigious Berkeley Public Library in Northern California; Plano Community Library (Ill.); Chicopee Public Library (Mass.); Redford Township District Library (Mich.); Salem-South Lyon District Library (Mich.); Port Charlotte Public Library (Fla.); Lincoln Parish Library (Ruston, La.); City of Allen Public Library (Texas). Additionally, two academic institutions, the University of Southern Indiana's David L. Rice Library and the New York Institute of Technology, have also selected Checkpoint's Intelligent Library System based on the company's strength in serving the demanding and specialized needs of university libraries. "We are happy to have the opportunity to work with such a diverse collection of libraries," notes Doug Karp, General Manager, ID Products Group at Checkpoint Systems. "Our newest customers reflect our ability to understand - and design solutions for - libraries of all types. Whether they are focused on serving communities at large or an academic population, Checkpoint's technology enhances service and value for both librarians and patrons." About the Intelligent Library System(R) The Intelligent Library System (ILS) speeds up the materials checkout process by providing a swift, one-step motion for issuing materials, simultaneously updating the information in the library's circulation system and electronically deactivating security. After installing the ILS, libraries have realized significant operational improvements by reducing materials handling time by as much as 75%. The ILS also allows for individual self check-out, enhanced security, circulation management, and efficient inventory, all integrated into a single system. The ILS employs a single technology supporting both material handling and security applications. It functions via a unique RFID circulation circuit(R) placed on or inside the items. This circuit operates within its own local area network (LAN) of RFID readers placed at appropriate locations throughout the library, including the library entry/exit where it functions as a security alert, triggering an alarm when books are removed from the library without permission and recording the specific item's identity. The ILS processes up to 20 items a second, making it the fastest system available for libraries. Key to the efficiency of the ILS is its Inventory Wand, a lightweight, handheld sensing unit that facilitates fast and accurate inventory of the library material. Librarians simply walk down the stacks, passing the Wand over the books and other items. The ILS "reads" the circulation circuit in each item, and automatically updates the library's database as to the existence and location of the item. In addition to its inventory use, the Wand can also be used for locating lost items. The ILS's Patron Self-Checkout Station lets patrons check out items from the library in a matter of seconds. To do this, they simply wave their patron card over the unit, place their items on the self-checkout station, touch the monitor and they're done. A receipt for the items being checked out is automatically generated by the system, and the patron can exit the library. About Checkpoint Systems, Inc. Checkpoint Systems, Inc., a multinational company, is a pioneer in the development of RFID technology for libraries and other industries. Founded in 1967 as a library security company, Checkpoint is the leading provider of RFID technology to libraries has a leading share of the RFID library marketplace. Checkpoint is the world's leading provider of radio frequency- (RF) based shrink management solutions to the global retail industry, including over half of the world's top 200 largest global retailers. The company, which has a presence in more than 80 countries, also markets laser and thermal printers and CCTV systems designed to improve efficiency, reduce costs and provide value-added solutions for customers across many markets and industries. For more information, visit www.checkpointlibrary.com. |
